800-150 Sample Questions Answers

In Cisco Nexus switches, when transitioning from a single supervisor module to a dual supervisor configuration, the behavior depends on the redundancy mode configured.​

Stateful Switchover (SSO):In configurations supporting SSO, the active and standby supervisors synchronize their state and configuration, allowing for seamless failover without resetting other modules.​

Stateless Switchover (Warm Standby):In certain modes, such as the ACI-mode on Cisco Nexus 9508 switches, the standby supervisor does not maintain synchronized state information with the active supervisor. In this scenario, if a switchover occurs (e.g., due to the replacement of the active supervisor), all modules in the switch are reset because the switchover is stateless.​

Therefore, when a supervisor module is replaced in a configuration that does not support stateful switchover, all modules in the switch are reset due to the stateless nature of the switchover.​

The Cisco Collaboration Infrastructure is designed to support unified communications, video conferencing, and team collaboration through an integrated architecture involving both hardware (e.g., endpoints, media servers) and software (e.g., CUCM, Webex apps).

According to the FLDTEC course content under Cisco Collaboration Equipment and Infrastructure:

Facilitating Connections (C):

Cisco infrastructure components such as CUCM, Expressway, and Cisco Meeting Server enable real-time connections between users across voice, video, and messaging systems.

Supporting Meeting Experiences (E):

Devices such asWebex Boards, Room Kits, and Cisco Quad Cameras, in combination with platforms like Webex, provide immersive and seamless meeting experiences, supported by the infrastructure.

Incorrect Options:

A. Network bandwidth allocation: Typically managed by network QoS policies and WAN optimizations, not the collaboration infrastructure directly.

B. Hosting large-scale databases: Not a function of Cisco’s collaboration system — this falls under data center or database server roles.

D. Phone book administration: Often a function within directory services or external LDAP integration, not a core collaboration infrastructure task.

In an enterprise network,Virtual Local Area Networks (VLANs)are the key Layer 2 technology used to logically segment a network into multiple broadcast domains. VLANs allow network administrators to assign individual switch ports to specific VLANs, enabling effective network segmentation and traffic management.

This configuration extends to access layer devices, such as switches where end-user devices connect. By isolating traffic into VLANs, administrators can improve network performance, enhance security by separating sensitive departments (such as finance and HR), and simplify network management.

Unlike routing protocols such as BGP and OSPF, which operate at Layer 3, or MPLS, which is a Layer 2.5 forwarding technology used primarily in service provider networks, VLANs are explicitly designed for Layer 2 segmentation within LAN environments.

A speed mismatch occurs when two connected Ethernet devices are configured to operate at different speeds. In scenario A, one device is manually set to 1 Gbps, while the other is set to 100 Mbps. Since both ends are hard-coded to different speeds, they cannot successfully negotiate a common speed, leading to a mismatch and resulting in a failed or unstable link.​

In contrast, scenario B, where both ends are manually set to the same speed, ensures compatibility and stable communication. Scenario C can lead to a duplex mismatch rather than a speed mismatch; the auto-negotiating end may default to half-duplex if it cannot determine the duplex setting of the manually configured end. Scenario D is less common; if auto-negotiation fails, devices may revert to their lowest common speed, but this typically results in reduced performance rather than a complete mismatch.​

For standalone Cisco Secure Firewall deployments, theCisco Secure Firewall Device Manager (FDM)is the most appropriate management option. FDM is a browser-based, on-box management tool that allows administrators to configure and manage a single firewall device without the need for external management infrastructure. It provides an intuitive interface for basic configurations, policy management, and monitoring.​

In contrast:​

Cisco Secure Firewall Management Center (FMC)is designed for centralized management of multiple firewall devices.

Cisco Defense Orchestrator (CDO)is a cloud-based solution for managing security policies across various devices.

Cisco Security Manageris an older platform primarily used for managing ASA devices.​

NVRAM → Startup configuration

RAM → Running configuration

ROM → Bootstrap code, POST code, ROM monitor

Flash memory → Cisco IOS software, backup configuration

Each memory type in a Cisco device serves a specific function in the boot process and runtime operation. NVRAM retains configuration across reboots, RAM is volatile and holds active configs, ROM handles initial boot tasks, and flash stores the operating system.

This content is covered thoroughly in"Cisco Equipment and Related Hardware"in the FLDTEC curriculum. Here's the breakdown:

ROM (Read-Only Memory)

Stores bootstrap code, POST (Power-On Self-Test), and ROM Monitor.

These are essential for the device’s initial power-on operations and recovery modes.

NVRAM (Non-Volatile RAM)

Holds thestartup configuration file, which is loaded during the boot process.

Content remains intact after a reboot or power cycle.

RAM (Random Access Memory)

Stores therunning configurationand current operational state of the router or switch.

Also used for routing tables, ARPcache, and packet buffers.

Data is lost when the device is powered off or rebooted.

Flash Memory

Contains theCisco IOS image, system files, and can storebackup configurations.

It is a non-volatile storage, so it retains data after reboots.

Bundle modesimplifies the installation and operation of Cisco IOS XE Software by using a monolithic image file. In thismode, the switch runs directly from the bundled image, eliminating the need to manage individual software packages. This approach is straightforward and reduces complexity, making it suitable for environments where simplicity is a priority.​

However, it's important to note that:​

Bundle mode may result in slower boot times compared to Install mode.

It does not support the independent installation or upgrade of individual packages.

Thepackages.conffile is not utilized in Bundle mode; it's specific toInstall mode.​

Theprimary reasonfor placing heavier equipment, such as UPS units or core switches, at thebottom of a rackis tomaintain stability. A lower center of gravity reduces the risk of tipping, especially when the rack is not yet bolted or braced.

This is a standard safety precaution in network hardware installation and is particularly important when racks are being serviced or relocated.

TheSpine-and-Leafarchitecture is the preferredpod-based deployment modelin modern data centers because of itshigh scalability and flexibility. In this topology:

Leaf switchesconnect to servers and act as the access layer.

Spine switchesfunction as the core layer, interconnecting all leaf switches.

This non-blocking, highly redundant model supportspredictable latency, easy horizontal scaling, and load balancing, making it ideal for cloud-scale and virtualized environments.

Top of Rack (ToR)andEnd of Row (EoR)are physical cabling layouts that do not inherently provide the same level of architectural scalability.

Fabric Extender modelsextend switch ports but depend on upstream switches for intelligence, limiting flexibility.

In theFLDTEC course, underMaintenance and RMA Procedures, Cisco outlines a specific sequence for bringing up anE-Series server modulein an ISR router. The sequenceensures proper recognition, IOS compatibility, and network readiness:

Power up the router and server: Ensures both components are initialized and POST begins.

Verify that the router recognized the server: Use service-module commands or show platform to confirm server visibility.

Load a compatible Cisco IOS image onto the ISR: The IOS must support the E-Series module to provide integration and configuration functionality.

Connect the server to the network: Establish network connectivity for services, remote access, or deployment.

This structured approach is essential for minimizing errors duringmodular hardware upgrades or RMAsin the field.

When configuring a terminal emulator (such as PuTTY, Tera Term, or HyperTerminal) to connect to the console port of a Cisco switch, the standard settings are as follows:​

Speed (baud rate): 9600This is the default transmission speed for Cisco console ports, ensuring compatibility across various devices.​

Data bits: 8This setting specifies that each character transmitted consists of 8 data bits, which is standard for most serial communications.​

Parity: NoneNo parity bit is used, meaning there is no additional error-checking bit appended to each character.​

Stop bits: 1One stop bit indicates the end of a character transmission.​

Flow control: NoneNo flow control is employed, allowing continuous data transmission without hardware or software-based pausing.​

Therefore, optionsC (Speed: 9600)andD (Data bits: 8)are correct. Options A (Stop bits: 2), B (Flow control: Hardware), and E (Parity: Even) deviate from the standard settings and may result in communication issues if configured.​

Acrossover UTP (Unshielded Twisted Pair) cableis used to connect two similar devices directly. This includes:​

Switch to switch

Router to router

PC to PC​

The crossover cable reverses the transmit and receive pairs, allowing for proper communication between like devices without the need for an intermediary device.​

Conversely, astraight-through cableis used to connect dissimilar devices, such as:​

PC to switch

Router to switch

PC to router​

This cable maintains the same wiring on both ends, suitable for connecting different types of devices.​

Therefore, when connecting electrically like devices, a crossover cable is appropriate.​

According toFLDTEC documentation and Cisco UCS architecture guides, each of these elements plays a distinct and essential role:

Fabric Interconnects (FI)– Act as the central switching and management point for the UCS domain, connecting servers to LAN and SAN.

Virtual Interface Cards (VICs)– Installed in servers, these adapters supportvirtualization of multiple NICs and HBAs, enabling dynamic profile assignment.

Fabric Extenders (FEXs)– Extend the I/O fabric from the FI to the chassis, reducing complexity and consolidating management.

Servers– Provide the actual compute resources and run workloads. These can bebladeorrack servershoused in the UCS chassis.

This structure is critical to theCisco Unified Fabric approach, which simplifies data center management through integration and automation.

Before installing or replacingDIMMs (Dual In-line Memory Modules)in a Cisco UCS server, it is essential to verify thecurrent DIMM configuration and the population order. Cisco UCS servers have strict memory population rules to ensure optimal performance and compatibility, particularly in relation to memory channels and banks.

While the type, capacity, and firmware compatibility are important, failing to follow the correct population guidelines can result in failed boot processes or suboptimal performance.

Anon-premises deploymentmodel minimizes dependence on internet connectivity for core collaboration functions. In this model, all critical services, including call control, messaging, and conferencing, are hosted within the organization's local infrastructure. This ensures that internal communication services remain operational even if internet connectivity is lost.​

In contrast, cloud-based deployments (Options A and C) and Hosted Collaboration Solutions (Option D) rely on internet connectivity to access services hosted externally, making them more susceptible to internet outages.​

In theInfrastructure as a Service (IaaS)model, the cloud provider is responsible for managing and maintaining the underlying infrastructure components, including:

Networking: The cloud provider handles all aspects of network configuration, hardware, and virtual networking.

Storage: The cloud provider supplies and manages the physical and virtual storage infrastructure required to support the consumer’s data needs.

The customer is responsible for managing:

Operating Systems

Applications

Data

This model offers flexibility while shifting infrastructure maintenance responsibilities to the service provider.

Backing up the configuration of a network device before replacement is a critical step to ensure business continuity and minimize downtime. The primary purpose of this backup is torestore the existing settings onto the new device, ensuring that it operates identically to the one being replaced.​

This process includes preserving interface configurations, routing protocols, access control lists, and other essential parameters. By restoring the backed-up configuration to the new device, network administrators can quickly reintegrate it into the network infrastructure without the need for manual reconfiguration, thereby reducing the risk of errors and service disruptions.​

Options A, B, and C do not align with the primary objective of configuration backups in the context of device replacement.​

Cloud-based managementis a core feature of Cisco Merakiswitches and significantly simplifies the device replacement process. When a failed switch is replaced:

The new hardware can be claimed in the Meraki dashboard.

The previously assigned configuration is automatically applied to the replacement device.

This eliminates the need for local reconfiguration and ensures continuity with minimal manual effort.

This centralized approach ensures that configurations are stored securely and consistently applied across devices.

Cisco MDS switches are segmented into two key categories: Director-Class and Fabric Switches, each tailored for different SANenvironments:

Director-Class Switches (e.g., Cisco MDS 9700 Series):

Modular and highly scalable

Support hot-swappable components (line cards, supervisors, fabric modules)

High port density and performance for core SANs in enterprise data centers

Fabric Switches (e.g., Cisco MDS 9148T):

Compact, fixed-form factor

Best suited for smaller SANs or edge locations

Cost-effective and simple to deploy

This distinction is important when selecting hardware for data center core vs access layers in SAN architectures.

Integrates multiple network layers into a single infrastructure → Unified Fabric

Provides link aggregation and redundancy between switches → Virtual port channels (vPCs)

Enables software-defined networking in data centers → Application Centric Infrastructure (ACI)

Combines storage and network traffic on a single network → Fibre Channel over Ethernet (FCoE)

These data center solutions are covered in theFLDTEC courseunder Cisco’s unified data center architecture and switching portfolio:

Unified Fabric:Streamlines Layer 2 and Layer 3 into a single operational model, reducing complexity and enhancing scalability.

vPC (Virtual Port Channel): Allows two Nexus switches to appear as one logical switch, enablingloop-free topologyandactive-active uplinks.

ACI (Application Centric Infrastructure): Cisco’s SDN solution, delivering centralized automation, policy enforcement, and fabric management.

FCoE: Enableslossless Ethernetforstorage (Fibre Channel)traffic to coexist withdatatraffic on the same Ethernet infrastructure.

These technologies are fundamental in modern Cisco-powered data centers tooptimize performance,reduce hardware, andsimplify management.

A → Power supply modules

B → Fan tray assembly

C → Line card slots 1 and 2

D → Supervisor modules

E → Line card slots 5, 6, and 7

The power supply units (A) are at the top, the fan tray (B) is a vertical module on the left, line cards (C and E) span multiple slots horizontally, and supervisor modules (D) are typically placed centrally for control functions.

In theFLDTEC courseunderCisco Modular Hardware Overview, the Cisco Catalyst 9400 series is broken down into clearly defined FRU zones:

Power Supply Modules (A):Located at thetop of the chassis, these provide redundant, hot-swappable power to the switch.

Fan Tray Assembly (B):Mounted vertically on the left, this ensures proper cooling and airflow throughout the chassis.

Line Card Slots 1 and 2 (C):Located in the upper section for network expansion.

Supervisor Modules (D):Positioned centrally, they handle control plane operations, management, and switching logic.

Line Card Slots 5, 6, and 7 (E):Lower slots for high-density port expansion.

Correct FRU identification ensures successful maintenance, upgrades, and hardware replacement during field operations.

Cisco Nexus switchesare specifically designed for deployment indata centers, where they providehigh-performance, low-latency switchingto support modern workloads, virtualization, and cloud computing environments.

Nexus switches operate usingNX-OS, a purpose-built operating system optimized for data center needs. These switches support technologies like virtual port channels (vPC), FabricPath, and Application Centric Infrastructure (ACI), which are essential for scalable and highly available data center networks.

They are not typically used in branch offices, as wireless access points, or as edge routers.

These components are part of theCisco Collaboration System Architecture (CSA), and are reviewed in theFLDTEC trainingunderCisco Equipment and Collaboration Basics:

Call Control: Managed by services likeCisco Unified Communications Manager (CUCM), it routes and connects calls.

Collaboration Applications: Provide added value services such asvoicemail (Unity),messaging (IM&P), presence, and more.

Edge Devices: IncludeCisco ExpresswayandCUBE(Cisco Unified Border Element), offering secure access and traversal for mobile/remote endpoints.

Conferencing: Powered by platforms likeCisco Meeting ServerorWebex, enabling multi-party conferencing.

Endpoints: Include bothhardware (IP phones, video units)andsoftware (Webex app)that users interact with directly.

The correct sequence for mounting a Cisco device in a rack is:​

Install mounting brackets: Attach the appropriate rack-mount brackets to the sides of the device using the screws provided. This step prepares the device for secure installation in the rack.​

Mount in rack: Carefully place the device into the rack, aligning the brackets with the rack posts, and secure it using the appropriate rack-mount screws.​

Ground the device: After the device is securely mounted, connect the grounding wire to the chassis grounding point and then to the facility ground. This step ensures safety and compliance with electrical standards.​

This sequence is recommended to ensure both the physical security of the device and the safety of personnel during installation.​

Theshow flash:command is used todisplay the contents of the device's flash memory, which is where the Cisco IOS image is typically stored. By issuing this command, a technician can verify available space and determine whether there is enough capacity to accommodate a new IOS image before initiating an upgrade or image replacement process.

This command provides a detailed listing of files, their sizes, and the total and available memory space within the flash file system.

show file-systemlists all available file systems but doesn’t detail their content.

show memoryshows runtime memory usage (RAM), not flash memory.

show storageis not a standard IOS command.

In theFLDTEC curriculum, Cisco emphasizes understanding of virtualized components in enterprise networks and UCS environments:

Virtual Switch– Operates within a hypervisor, replicates L2 behavior for inter-VM and external connectivity.

Type 1 Hypervisor– Also called “bare-metal,” examples include VMware ESXi and Microsoft Hyper-V Core; optimized for data center performance.

Virtual Machine (VM)– A logical instance of a system that runs its own OS and apps, powered by virtualized CPU, RAM, and storage.

Type 2 Hypervisor– Runs atop an existing OS (e.g., VMware Workstation, VirtualBox), ideal for labs and dev/testing.

Mastering these definitions supports field technicians inUCS deployments, virtualization troubleshooting, and remote infrastructure diagnostics.

Theboot systemcommand is used in globalconfiguration mode to specify the source and filename of the Cisco IOS software image that should be loaded during the device’s boot process. This command ensures that the device loads a specific IOS image, whether it's stored locally in flash or fetched from a TFTP server.

Syntax example:

boot system flash:c1900-universalk9-mz.SPA.157-3.M3.bin

boot image,boot ios, andboot sourceare invalid or non-existent in standard Cisco IOS.